Fringe 2011: Five dance shows based on true-stories

Real life events provide inspirational for a number of Fringe shows this year

This article is from 2011.

Falling Man

Who can forget the horrific image of a man falling to his death from the World Trade Center during the 9/11 attacks? This haunting solo by Dundee-based dance company Smallpetitklein was inspired by the ubiquitous photos capturing the event.
Dance Base, 225 5525, 5–21 Aug (not Mondays), times vary, £7. Preview 5 Aug, £5.

Jasmine Gwangju

In May 1980, the residents of Gwangju City in South Korea took part in a ten-day uprising against military rule. Although crushed by the army, the uprising helped to bring about democracy. This mix of mass drumming and ritual dance celebrates their efforts.
Venue 150 @ EICC, 0844 847 1639, 13 Aug–19 Aug, times vary, £10 (£7).

Last Orders

Less an historical event and more an extended meal, Last Orders takes a highly theatrical look at Sawney Bean, the notorious cannibal who preyed on passers-by in 16th-century Scotland. Prepare to be entertained and possibly slightly repulsed.
Traverse, 228 1404, 17–28 Aug (not 22), times vary, £17–£19 (£12–£13). Preview 16 Aug, £12 (£6).

Now and at the Time of Our Turn

Inspired by the Candelária Massacre of 1993, when a group of sleeping street children in Rio de Janeiro were shot and killed by policemen, this physical theatre solo is told from the viewpoint of a survivor.
Remarkable Arts at St George's West Church, 225 7001, 8–19 Aug, times vary, £9–£12 (£7.50–£9.50). Previews 5–7 Aug, £7.50.

The Seagull Effect

A couple’s relationship falls apart against the backdrop of ‘The Great Storm’ of 1987, when Britain effectively ground to a halt. Michael Fish famously got the forecast wrong that night, but Total Theatre award-winners Idle Motion usually hit the spot with their multimedia shows.
Zoo Roxy, 662 6892, 7–27 Aug (not 16, 21), times vary, £10 (£8). Previews 5 & 6 Aug, £7 (£6).

Within Range

Set during November 1989, just after the fall of the Berlin Wall, this politically charged piece looks at the impact this momentous event had on people’s lives – not all of whom were happy to see it fall.
Zoo Southside, 662 6892, 8–20 Aug (not 16), times vary, £12 (£10). Previews 6 & 7 Aug, £7.